Sheriff’s Investigator Accused of Using Flock Cameras to Track Her Ex-Girlfriend 3,000 Times

**Albany County Investigator Suspended Amid Allegations of Unauthorised Searches**

An investigator with the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Laurie Moore, has been suspended indefinitely following allegations of improper use of law enforcement databases. The 47-year-old faces two misdemeanour charges, including second-degree falsifying business records and official misconduct, according to reports from several local news outlets, including the Albany Times Union.

Authorities claim that Moore conducted over 4,000 unlawful searches concerning five individuals, predominantly targeting her ex-girlfriend’s vehicle. Notably, around 3,000 searches are reported to involve this particular vehicle, while four other licence plates were each checked hundreds of times. These actions are said to have occurred between January and early September of this year.

The investigation into Moore’s activities began after an external source brought potential misconduct to the attention of the sheriff’s office. Sheriff Craig Apple revealed during a press briefing that an internal audit initially unveiled numerous instances of unauthorized searches. This audit was subsequently expanded, revealing the true scale of the alleged wrongdoing.

Sheriff Apple indicated that Moore had accessed the Flock Safety automated licence plate reader system and other state motor vehicle records for reasons not related to legitimate law enforcement duties. Further examination uncovered that Moore’s access to the Flock system dated back to approximately late 2024, raising concerns about the duration of these actions.

Moore, who has been in the role of senior investigator for 13 years, has been described by Sheriff Apple as being competent in her position. The sheriff expressed disappointment over allegations against someone he previously viewed as a reputable officer. He stated, “It literally breaks my heart,” reflecting on the significance of the trust that the public invests in law enforcement.

In the wake of these serious allegations, Moore has been placed on indefinite suspension while administrative reviews continue. Additionally, another member of the sheriff’s command staff has also been placed on administrative leave. Despite the severity of the situation, Sheriff Apple confirmed that there is no evidence suggesting that other employees within the agency participated in the unlawful tracking of vehicles.

“The public places tremendous trust in law enforcement and our ability to use these tools responsibly,” Sheriff Apple emphasised. He went on to address the betrayal of that trust, asserting his commitment to holding those accountable who abuse their positions. The sheriff took precautionary measures by limiting access to Flock data to supervisory personnel and mandated regular audits every 30 days to deter further misconduct.

Flock Safety’s technology, which utilises a network of automated cameras to capture licence plates and vehicle details, has faced scrutiny over potential privacy violations. Concerns have arisen regarding law enforcement’s use of such technology to monitor those outside of legitimate criminal investigations, including personal acquaintances and family members.

Despite the serious implications of this case, Sheriff Apple maintains that the Flock license plate reader system serves as a valuable resource for crime prevention and investigation. “This is a great tool, and I will defend that tool,” he stated defiantly, while acknowledging the breach of public trust.

As the investigation continues, efforts are being made to ensure that such breaches do not reoccur in the future. Sheriff Apple reassured the community that there would be increased oversight on the use of automated licence plate readers, with a commitment to transparency throughout the process.

Attempts by the Albany Times Union to reach Moore for comment have been unsuccessful, and it remains uncertain whether she has secured legal representation. Moore is due to appear in New Scotland Town Court at 5 p.m. on 24th September.

This situation serves as a reminder of the critical need for accountability and oversight in law enforcement practices, particularly concerning technologies that can significantly impact privacy rights and civil liberties. As the community awaits further developments, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office faces challenges in rebuilding trust with the public it serves.